AARP Tax Aide help available Monday

By THOMAS JENKINS     
Staff Writer
Area residents facing the daunting task of filing their 2009 tax returns won't have to go it alone, as the volunteers with the AARP Tax Aide program get ready to lend a helping hand Monday morning.

The assistance couldn't come at a better time, according to longtime program coordinator Gloria Hopkins, as changes in the tax law since last year's effort could mean at least a small amount of economic relief for Americans.

“Before last year, property taxes would have been an itemized deduction. However, starting last year and continuing this year, they are part of the taxpayer's standard deductions,” said Hopkins. “So homeowners need to be sure to bring proof they paid their 2008 property taxes with them. The deduction can be as much as $500 for a single person and $1,000 for married couples.”

Those that find the task of filing their own returns confusing aren't alone, according to Hopkins.

“There's just so much red tape involved, it's almost impossible for people to keep up with all of it,” said Hopkins. “And if they don't have the money to hire a tax professional, they can be missing out on all kinds of deductions and programs the government offers. This program gives them a chance to sit down with someone who is trained to deal with these things.

“The AARP program provides free federal tax preparation assistance to people who cannot afford professional tax help, such as seniors, people with disabilities, those that don’t speak English and people with low-to-moderate income. AARP volunteers explain many special tax credits and deductions and how people may claim them on their tax returns. These volunteers help people complete their returns, right down to any refunds that may be due them.”

Hopkins said area residents planning to use the service should be sure to gather up their financial information before heading to the Senior Center.

“People need to be sure to bring all of the pertinent information with them, including a tax booklet if one was received through the mail, W-2 forms and 1099 forms,” said Hopkins. “They also need to bring any forms that show their 2009 earnings and their 2008 tax returns. We also need a Social Security card for every person named on the return and a photo ID for the person filing.”

Participants in the program will be able to e-file their tax returns at no charge, according to Hopkins.

“The e-file procedure is so much easier than having to mail in your tax return,” said Hopkins. “And if you're due a tax refund, you can get it a lot faster. We've really had a lot of success with the e-filing over the past several years.”

The program will continue each Monday from the start date through April 11 at the Senior Center — located at 1901 Simler Dr. in the McMahon-Wrinkle Airpark — from 8 a.m. until noon.

April 15 is the last day to file tax returns before facing penalties. For more information, contact Hopkins at 267-6733.

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it